INTO THE FRAY

TWO OF THE STATE'S most prominent Democrats are expected to open campaign accounts in July for the most prominent 1986 races. They are Gov. Bob Graham, who plans to run for the U.S. Senate, and Insurance Commissioner Bill Gunter, who is running for governor. Neither has acknowledged to be actually seeking higher office, but there are no poorer kept secrets in the state. Graham's closest political adviser, L. Garry Smith, said he isn't sure yet whether Graham will open an exploratory account or a regular account next month. Smith said he's meeting with the governor Friday and expects a number of campaign decisions will be made then. Graham's opponent is incumbent Republican Paula Hawkins, who already has raised nearly $2 million. One prediction from veteran Paula watchers is that she will begin television advertising this year and may directly attack Graham early in the campaign. That prediction is based on the style of her pollster, Dick Morris of New York, who is known for his unconventional tactics.

Gunter, the front-runner in what promises to be a congested race for the Democratic nomination for governor, can't afford to wait much longer to begin raising money. It's not that he couldn't collect the money later on, but he wants to avoid the appearance of being left in the dust by opponents, including state Senate President Harry Johnston of West Palm Beach and former state Rep. Steve Pajcic of Jacksonville.